“A play about life, love, and all of the sarcasm in between.”
Mel and Bryson keep their marriage alive in a unique way. Matt is pulled into their twisted games, and finds himself falling in love with Mel’s sister, Liz. Unfortunately for him, the family has a past that won’t stay hidden for long.

Brelby has some exciting projects in the works this summer…and while we’re not ready to announce them all just yet, we do have a lot of action taking place at The Playhouse throughout the month of May.

We’re deep into rehearsals for the Arizona premiere of Fly By Night, a beautiful new musical that received it’s New York premiere at Playwrights Horizons in 2014. The sweet story follows Harold McClam, an average sandwich maker and aspiring musician and the two sisters (Daphne and Miriam) with whom his life is soon intertwined. Set amongst the historic Northeast blackout of 1965, the show explores love, loss, light and darkness…and the way that they all impact our lives. The show is intimate, even for our venue, featuring a cast of seven and a lone piano player, as they tell this haunting story.

Historic Downtown Glendale is the place to go for fun festivals year round. This Mother’s Day weekend is no exception. Bring your mom to check out the shops on Saturday May 12th from 10am-4pm, and you can collect carnations for her as you go. Brelby will have stations for mom to wrap them up into a beautiful bouquet. We’ll also be featuring performances from some of our best singers in the gazebo from 11am-3pm. Stop by, pick up a glass of lemonade, and listen to the beautiful voices flowing. At 3pm, we’ll have a special free performance from our improv team, Results May Vary. You can also check out some of our artisans in the courtyard, selling handmade crafts. It’s going to be a great way to treat your mom to a special day!

Results May Vary improv is delighted to keep bringing the laughs in Downtown Glendale. We just had a round of auditions in April, and we’re excited to announce some new faces soon.

You can join the fun for a double feature Sunday on May 6th at 5:00pm, when your ticket to see the matinee of Fly By Night will grant you complimentary admission to the early show. You can also drop by just for the improv adventures and enjoy our Radical Hospitality Month at RMV. This means…that you pay what you can at the door. Is it a tight month? Drop a dollar. Feeling generous? Slip us a $20. It doesn’t matter what you pay, as long as we see your face.

We’re gearing up for some summer programming, and that means that we have a round of Auditions coming up on May 26th!
Brelby is partnering with Space 55 in Downtown Phoenix to offer a special co-production of Playing Games by Brian Maticic. The show will perform in August, and rehearses throughout July.

May Calendar at a Glance
May 11 @ 7:30PM – Fly By Night Opening Performance (Join us afterwards for our opening night after party at Cuff, just across the park from Brelby.)
May 12 @ 10:00AM-4:00PM – Mother’s Day in Downtown Glendale
May 12 @ 7:30PM – Fly By Night
May 13 @ 2:00PM – Fly By Night
May 13 @ 5:00PM – Results May Vary Improv Show (Pay What You Can)
May 18 @ 7:30PM – Fly By Night
May 19 @ 7:30PM – Fly By Night
May 20 @ 2:00PM – Fly By Night
May 25 @ 7:30PM – Fly By Night
May 26 @ 9:00AM-12:00PM – Auditions: Playing Games
May 26 @ 7:30PM – Fly By Night
May 27 @ 2:00PM – Fly By Night

]]>http://brelby.com/shelbys-pre-show-checklist-may-2/feed/0Season 11 Original Play Semi-Finalistshttp://brelby.com/season-11-original-play-semi-finalists/
http://brelby.com/season-11-original-play-semi-finalists/#respondMon, 30 Apr 2018 01:52:55 +0000http://brelby.com/?p=6700Join us in congratulating the semi-finalists for our 2019 Season. These playwrights were selected from over 400 submissions, and will now progress to a reading committee comprised of several of Brelby’s core artists. The finalists will be announced this Fall at our Season 11 Reveal Event.

SEMI-FINALISTS
Wolves of Sherwood by Chelsea Frandsen
Fabulous Monsters by Diana Burbano
Grímnismál (Or, The Magpie Play) by Alex Tuchi
A Sense of Wonder by Ilana Lydia
Beureaucrazy by Kate Danley
Any Day Now by Nat Cassidy
Grace, or the Art of Climbing by Lauren Feldman

HORROR SEMI-FINALISTS
Flipping Fitcher’s Bird by Kirt Shineman
Devil Land by Desi Moreno-Penson
The Frankenstein Sisters by Paco Jose Madden
Monster by Sam Graber
The Lost Girls by Courtney Meaker
Songs of Blood by Nat Cassidy

Brelby’s company members comprise our core ensemble. They take on administrative tasks to help keep our theatre running smoothly, but they are so much more than just volunteers. Our company members set the bar as leaders, artists, and humans as to what Brelby’s executive team expects from our collaborative artists. They are dedicated, driven, reliable, creative, and compassionate.

Today’s Company Corner features an interview between Brelby’s Artistic Director Shelby Maticic, and one of our most recent additions to the company, Sophie Chavez. Sophie made her Brelby debut in the ensemble of Dogfight, and has been seen in The 3rd Annual Miscast Concert, Elf Academy, The 2nd Annual Night of Shorts, and most recently as Martha Dunnstock in Heathers the Musical. She recently lent a hand with the quick changes backstage of Spin, and is preparing to tackle her first sound design for this summer’s production of Spy Love You. She’s currently in rehearsals as Daphne, the small town girl with big dreams, in Fly By Night.

Shelby: Tell me about how you found your way to Brelby.

Sophie: When Brelby released their 9th season, I saw that they were doing Dogfight, so I thought I’d give it a try. This was my 2nd theatre audition outside of high school and I remember being so nervous, but when my audition came, all of my stress and anxiety went away. Everyone was so kind and welcoming! When I was at callbacks, I kept thinking to myself “oh my god, i need to work with this company.” When I got that first casting email, I ugly cried. Brelby took a chance on some no-named girl and for that I’m eternally grateful. This upcoming may will be my one year anniversary with Brelby. Here’s to many more!

Shelby: Cheers! What got you started in theatre?

Sophie: I caught the theatre bug when I was in the 6th grade. I did a couple plays here and there, but my first musical was Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and I played the character Violet Beauregarde. I always wanted to do more theatre after that, but I was so shy when I was younger, so I don’t think my family took me seriously when I said I wanted to act. My junior year of high school, I auditioned for the spring musical, which was Shrek, and I got the role that I wanted (I was the singing cookie). I had a really great theatre teacher in high school who was so supportive & gave me challenging roles. If it weren’t for her, I don’t think I would be doing theatre now. I’m forever grateful for her.

Shelby: Great teachers make such a difference. Can you share one or two of your favorite Brelby memories?

Sophie: Wowie! There are so many!! My first show with Brelby was Dogfight, and for our first read through, we had a get together at your house. I remember being so nervous, I thought my heart was going to beat out of my chest. Everyone was so kind and welcoming, so that definitely helped my nerves. After the read through, I was telling my mom “This is going to be the most incredible show I have ever been a part of. I just know it.” It was, and it still is. I’ve met so many incredible people through Brelby, but the one sticks out is my soul bestie, an actual goddess: Amelia!!!! We didn’t become close friends until the miscast concert(we went out to eat after every show… oops!), but since then we’ve been inseparable. We are each other’s biggest cheerleaders and I just don’t know what I would do with her. So thank you Brelby, for blessing me with my best friend!

Shelby: I love watching the way that you two support one another. Everyone deserves a friendship like that. If you had to choose one quote that summed up how you try to live your life, what would it be?

Sophie: “There’s nothing a man can do, that I can’t do better and in heels.”

Shelby: Yes, queen! As a company member, you have a specific administrative task that you are responsible for.

Sophie: Yes, I’m a Volunteer Coordinator (along with Amelia Huot).

Shelby: Can you tell me more about what your role entails?

Sophie: My #1 goal as Volunteer Coordinator is to bring people together to make Brelby the absolute best it can be. There’s something special about having Brelby Veterans come together to put up a cabaret or to help build a set, even watch baby Rory (my favorite thing to do)!!! Not to mention, volunteering is a great bonding opportunity! We are also going to expand more of our volunteer opportunities to the public, which would be so incredible, because volunteering is vital in the Arizona theatre community!

Shelby: We love volunteers. Some of our core artists have found their way here by starting as volunteers. What else are you looking forward to accomplishing as a company member?

Sophie: Helping Brelby to grow in the best way possible! This theatre is so incredible and I want all of Arizona to know Brelby!

Shelby: Thanks for letting us all get to know you a little better, Sophie. Next up, Sophie will be performing the role of Daphne in our spring production of Fly By Night.

Brelby’s company members comprise our core ensemble. They take on administrative tasks to help keep our theatre running smoothly, but they are so much more than just volunteers. Our company members set the bar as leaders, artists, and humans as to what Brelby’s executive team expects from our collaborative artists. They are dedicated, driven, reliable, creative, and compassionate.

Today’s Company Corner features an interview between Brelby’s Artistic Director Shelby Maticic, and one of our most recent additions to the company, Jonathan Gradilla. Jonathan has been seen on the Brelby stage in Quest for Claus: the Musical, unexpected, Peter and the Starcatcher and Heathers the Musical. He was also a part of the stage management team for The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

Shelby: I remember the first time that we met. You came in for a volunteer day and helped with some of the grunt work of getting our new building ready to open. Tell me about how you found your way to Brelby.

Jonathan: I found my way to Brelby Theatre when I was really trying to find myself. I became active around the end of 2016. Upon accepting my first role I knew I had a special connection with the company. It seemed as though they wanted to be there, and this made me want to be there. Working at Brelby has given me this incredible opportunity to grow to be a better person and artist. I’ve become part of this incredible family, and I couldn’t be more excited.

Shelby: You were charming…but quiet. You’re still kind of quiet. I’m glad that you auditioned for us with so many amazing theatres in town.

Jonathan: I was drawn to this theatre because it had charm and a sense of community. I’ve learned that we all care for one another and give support when needed. I’ve been involved with the company for over a year now. I am lucky enough to call these people that run the show and create all the magic my friends and family.

Shelby: What drew you to theatre in the first place? How long have you been involved?

Jonathan: Throughout my childhood, I went to a performing arts K-8 charter school. Each fall and spring there would be a performance involving each and every class. I had always been interested in the arts but hadn’t fully committed until I was a Junior in high school. When I was placed in the ensemble of Bye Bye Birdie I knew that performing on stage was something I loved to do. Looking out to the vague, barely visible faces in the audience, completely captivated by the performance sealed the deal. Showcasing art, either being on stage or through a screen, has always been a big part of my life. It has shaped me into the person I am today and continues to allowing me to grow into my best self.

Shelby: The arts can be so powerful. Can you share one or two of your favorite Brelby memories?

Jonathan: I’ve met many friends at Brelby who will always hold a special place in my heart. My favorite memory doesn’t exactly take place at the space, but at my own home: when I got my very first callback from the theatre. When I got that email, I was amazed. Shocked. Excited. This would be my first callback since high school and I was nervous. I had had these doubts and thoughts streaming through my head, but Brelby saw past it all. They gave me that chance to show them what I had. I never would have guessed that a little over a

year later i would be an actual company member.

Shelby: You’re kind of known around here for your Zen personality. If you had to choose one quote that summed up how you try to live your life, what would it be?

Jonathan: Live and let live. Become your best and you will see the best.

Shelby: That quote is so you. I think it will serve you well in your new role as Media Liason. What are you looking forward to most in this new position?

Jonathan: Brelby Theatre’s most successful form of advertising is by word of mouth. My goal is to create unique and original digital media for advertisement and promotion of the Company. As the Media Liason, I am hoping to build a strong digital media buzz for the Theatre Company and it’s productions. With my years of knowledge and skills from media training, I hope to increase the quality and quantity of content released under the Brelby brand.

Shelby: Music to my ears. I’m looking forward to seeing what you create. What do you look forward to accomplishing as a company member?

James: I am excited to continue the growth and community of this theatre. We’ve got the purest intentions of supporting local arts. Everyone deserves their chance of expression.

Shelby: Thanks for letting us all get to know you a little better, Jonathan. Next up, Jonathan will be playing the role of Joey in this Spring’s AZ Premiere of Fly By Night.

Brelby’s company members comprise our core ensemble. They take on administrative tasks to help keep our theatre running smoothly, but they are so much more than just volunteers. Our company members set the bar as leaders, artists, and humans as to what Brelby’s executive team expects from our collaborative artists. They are dedicated, driven, reliable, creative, and compassionate.

Today’s Company Corner features an interview between Brelby’s Artistic Director Shelby Maticic, and one of our most recent additions to the company, James Beneze. James has been seen on the Brelby stage in Quest for Claus: the Musical, The Pledge, and The 4th Annual Miscast Concert. Some of his behind the scenes credits include Heathers the Musical, Whisper Sweetly and Cold War Kids.

Shelby: I feel like you really clicked with Brelby right away. Tell me about how you found your way to Brelby.

James: One of my best friends, Alexxis Briviesca, had been involved with Brelby for a while and kept encouraging me to audition but I always chickened out. When it was getting time for Alexxis to leave us for NYC, I started to seriously consider finally getting involved. My then boyfriend was extremely supportive and helped push me to talk to Shelby Maticic about volunteering after the fundraiser that Brelby hosted for Alexxis. A few days later Shelby messaged me about needing a costume, hair, and makeup designer for Cold War Kids and I immediately accepted. In the year and a half that I’ve been with Brelby I have been involved in 10 productions, so it’s safe to say that I’ve definitely found a place that feels like home.

Shelby: I agree…and I’m so glad that Alexxis kept pushing you to get involved with us. What drew you to theatre in the first place? How long have you been involved?

James: My introduction to theatre was in third grade, 1998, when my class put on The Wizard of Oz. It was a small elementary school in a farming community in Northern Illinois, so the sets, costumes, and props were all made by the teacher, her daughter’s, and the third grade students. Except for the principle roles, we all played multiple parts and it was specifically as the Mayor of Munchkin City that I fell in love with performing. Sadly, I didn’t have any other theatrical opportunities until high school, 2004-2007, where theatre was very much neglected and then not again until I enrolled in the theatre program at GCC in the beginning of 2014. And I’ve been pretty much nonstop since.

Shelby: I love this. The Wizard of Oz holds such a special place in my heart. Can you share one or two of your favorite Brelby memories?

James: One of my favorite Brelby moments would have to be opening night of Quest for Claus: The Musical. It was my first time performing in a show outside of a school setting and my first time in a musical. Walking out of the theatre for the gala that night, I was bombarded by so much love and support. It showed me that this is what I really want to do with my life.

Shelby: You were so deliciously evil in that show. I still think about your performance as the Rat King sometimes. If you had to choose one quote that summed up how you try to live your life, what would it be?

James: “Service is the rent that you pay for room on this earth.” – Shirley Chisholm – First black woman elected to Congress in 1968. I’ve loved this quote since my senior year when I found it while doing research for a speech. I’ve always found joy in helping others and this quote just resonated with me and has stuck with me since. (There is a similar quote said by Muhammad Ali in the 70’s)

Shelby: That is beautiful, James…and transitions perfectly to my next question. As a company member, you have a specific administrative task that you are responsible for.

James: Yes, I’m the Prop Manager.

Shelby: So our prop designers come to you when they want to pull items for a show, and to find out what is in stock…and you also handle prop donations when they come in. Can you tell me more about what your role entails?

James: As the prop manager one of my main responsibilities is getting all of the prop stock of the theatre organized and catalogued so that eventually I would like to have a library-like check-out system in place. That way we would know what item is being used for which shows and who is responsible for each item being used. If anyone is interested in volunteering, I’m still working on going through the stock and getting rid of old, unneeded items

and extra hands would be much appreciated. Then when it comes time to catalogue everything an extra set or two of eyes would be tremendous. I’m hoping to create a tag system where each item has a tag with a reference number, so that will take a lot of work.

Shelby: That sounds amazing…I love organization. And it sounds like if folks were interested in volunteering that they could absolutely lend a hand in this area. You’ve already made a lot of progress for Brelby in the props department. What else are you looking forward to accomplishing as a company member?

James: I’m really looking forward to being able to help bring new works to life here in the Valley. Brelby is so unique in how much faith and support they put into new artists and playwrights and I’m so excited to be a part of it.

Shelby: Thanks for letting us all get to know you a little better, James. Next up, James will be serving as the stage manager for this summer’s production of Spy Love You...a world premiere by local playwright John Perovich.

Spin tells the story of the Derby Dames, a hot shot team in the fast paced world of roller derby. When their star jammer is laid up with a 9 month injury, the Dames reluctantly agree to bring on the team captain’s sister Dahlia. Dahlia, a high school physics teacher, is drawn to the science of the sport…but will she be able to handle the cutthroat competition?

Book, Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe & Kevin Murphy
Directed by Shelby Maticic
Music Direction by CJ O’Hara

Feb 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, March 2-3 @ 7:30pm, Feb 11, 18, 25 @ 2pm

Based on the classic 1989 film, Westerberg High is ruled by a shoulder-padded, scrunchie-wearing junta: Heather, Heather, and Heather, the hottest and cruelest girls in all of Ohio. But misfit Veronica Sawyer rejects their evil regime for a new boyfriend, the dark and sexy stranger J.D., who plans to put the Heathers in their place – six feet under.